Let’s face it: Winston-Salem is a pretty small place (shocking, I know). And yet, surprisingly, it’s got a huge array of great restaurants, cafes and bakeries that most of us don’t even know about. Don’t believe me? Think about it. You probably frequent the same 3-4 restaurants whenever you go off-campus for lunch or dinner with your friends (the Loop or Panera, anyone?) and forget about what else is out there. Well I’m here to let you in on a secret: Winston has tons of fantastic, yummy joints that you really should check out ASAP. Here are some of the least-known-by Wake-students/best-known-by-townies dives you’ll want to make your new go-to’s.
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Skippy’s Hotdogs
Owner Mike Rothman became inspired to bring the art of pretzel-making to the Winston-Salem area after moving here from his Pennsylvanian hometown (where they are already widely popular). Before finding his fit, he worked with homemade recipes (specifically, a secret family recipe from his home state with super secret ingredients). With the recipe set, he began introducing the surrounding area to his pretzels through local events. After a few experiments, he finally opened a hole-in-the-wall restaurant downtown which is a perennial hit and always easily distinguished by a line out the door during the lunch hour!
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Krankie’s Coffee
Located in the cultural hub of downtown Winston, Krankie’s Coffee offers an array of prime-roasted beans from all over the world. The coffee is roasted freshly at the shop, and each cup is freshly prepared. A side bonus? Krankie’s works with Fair-Trade to serve organic items that are eco-friendly! They also serve a variety of flavored sodas and teas as well as homemade treats, so grab some friends and stop by sometime this fall – you won’t regret this venture!
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Ziggy’s
Also located downtown, Ziggy’s hosts a variety of concerts for all kinds of music lovers! Throughout the year, Ziggy’s works with local artists as well as famed musicians to plan concerts and tickets that are reasonably priced. So whenever you’re in need of some sweet sounds, Winston townies would certainly agree that Ziggy’s is the place to be!
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Mrs. Pumpkin’s
Mrs. Pumpkin (better known as ‘Desty’) is well-known by locals for her decadent cakes guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth! She began baking as a child and was handed down her first recipes from her grandmother. As an adult, she first started her business with her husband right out of their home. Despite their humble beginnings, it wasn’t long before their single-family kitchen wasn’t sufficient for the growing cake and deli business! Now her store is located on Reynolda Road, and she always has a list for cakes for all celebrations! (F.Y.I. her carrot cakes are to die for!)
So next time you’re trying to brainstorm a place to grab a snack with your girls or have a lunch date, remember these best-kept secrets of Winston-Salem!
*Photography by Madeline Baker